Patients’ satisfaction with Suffolk GPs is higher than national average

IESCCG chairman Dr Mark Shenton ANL-150629-145248009

Published:11:38Friday 15 January 2016

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Patients in Suffolk have shown higher levels of satisfaction with their GPs than the national averages in an independent survey.

The IPSOS Mori/NHS England survey asked patients to rate their experiences of using their GP practice including the ease of making an appointment, waiting time at the surgery, satisfaction with opening hours and the trust in the care given by the GP or practice nurse. Results for both CCG areas equalled or exceeded the national average in every category.

Results for GP practices in the NHS Ipswich and East Suffolk (IESCCG) and NHS West Suffolk (WSCCG ) clinical commissioning group areas include:

How easy is it to get through to surgery by phone? – Easy – IESCCG 78 per cent , WSCCG 80 per cent , national average 70 per cent.

How convenient was the appointment you were able to get? Convenient – IESCCG 95 per cent , WSCCG 93 per cent , national average 92 per cent.

How would you describe your experience of making an appointment? – Very good/good – IESCCG 79 per cent , WSCCG 78 per cent , national average 73 per cent.

Did you have confidence or trust in the GP you saw or spoke to? Yes – IESCCG 93 per cent , WSCCG 94 per cent , national average 92 per cent.

Dr Mark Shenton, a Stowmarket GP and chairman of the NHS Ipswich and East Suffolk Clinical Commissioning Group, said: “For many people, their GP practice is the first port of call for medical help and advice, which is why the results of this survey are pleasing. They show that overall local people are receiving high quality services from their GP practice. Healthcare staff including receptionists, nurses and GPs are all rated highly for the level of care and support they provide.

“Despite the difficulties faced by the NHS it is important we recognise the many dedicated and hardworking NHS staff members in our county who, every day, help people with their physical and mental wellbeing.”

Dr Christopher Browning, a Long Melford GP and chairman of the NHS West Suffolk Clinical Commissioning Group, said: “We can all be proud of achieving these results, which are indicative of the high quality of NHS healthcare services in Suffolk.”

Dr Paul Driscoll, chair of the Suffolk GP Federation, said: “It is a credit to have such positive feedback despite all the difficulties facing GP practices.”